Cycling the World: 5 Bike-Friendly Cities You Need to Visit

The biking community is growing stronger and stronger every day. The 2015 Index of the most bike-friendly cities ranked about eighty different cities, which are picked based on their geographical, political or regional importance. For one city to be a part of this list, it needs to advocate biking, raise awareness about its benefits, build biking facilities, work on various innovation or invest in the growth of a biking network in some way.

Biking really helps you get to know the different parts of the world up close – there’s not other mode of transport that will enable you to experience as much. This list of the 20 friendliest cities for bikers has a couple of highlights which I feel should be on everyone's must-see list, so check them out!

Barcelona

If you’d like to experience what life in Southern Europe is really like, Barcelona is the place to go. Over the last eight years or so, Barcelona did amazing things for the development of their biking system, so you’ll have no problems worth mentioning – other than scooters, which Barcelona is widely known for – while moving around the city. So, whether you decide to explore wonderful beaches until you find your own piece of paradise, or to mingle with the locals and try to learn more about their culture, I’m sure you’ll have a lot of fun.

Amsterdam

Right after Barcelona, Amsterdam takes the second place on this list, and only because they decided not to move a muscle and live off their previous accomplishments. The fact that they have decided to be a bit lazy doesn’t make this city any less interesting – its landmarks, lifestyle, legal boundaries and nightlife in general make it unique. You should allow this town to seduce you and explore all its options, but make sure you get a good night’s sleep and according to Amsterdam Stay guide you can even get free bikes with some accommodations. Take safety precautions just in case, because it can get pretty crazy in Amsterdam.

Ljubljana

The capital of Slovenia has a lot more to offer than it shows at first glance. Not only are they interested in biking development, they also invest a lot into spreading awareness about various environmental issues, and what we can do to work on finding adequate solutions for them. There are many different tourist attractions, so you’ll be able to find exactly what you’re looking for – exploring old villages and caves, taking a balloon flight over Ljubljana, experiencing their nightlife or enjoying its resort spots – there’s something fun for everyone.

Buenos Aires

Being that the capital of Argentina has great weather and a that unique warm Latino atmosphere, visiting this city simply can’t turn out to be a bad decision. They have decided to heavily invest in their biking infrastructure as of late, and they achieved amazing success in just a few years. It’s still work in progress, but with over 80 miles of cycling infrastructure, I’m sure you’ll be able to get around. After you’re done with visiting its landmarks, you should definitely have a taste of their exotic lifestyle, visit their widely known old bars and – of course – dance! Buenos Aires is the birthplace of tango, so you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to learn from the pros.

Paris

If you’re up for some romance, The City of Light is the obvious destination. Although they still have some issues when it comes to the design of their biking infrastructure, they have managed to make a good deal of progress that shouldn’t go unnoticed. So, get on your bike and get ready for art, notorious romance, amazing food and the flamboyant French lifestyle in general – these people are widely known for their nonchalance and hedonism, which is definitely something you need to experience firsthand.

These five cities made my list primarily because they are bike-friendly, green and ready to invest in further development, but that’s not all they are. Each of them represent a certain spirit and a culture that has been nurtured for a very long time, and getting to know these people and their lifestyle is something that can enable you to grow as a person. I hope you’ll find them as interesting as I did.